Learning objectives
The main objective of this module is to give students the basic knowledge of eukaryotic cells, tissues and embryo development. At the end of the course, students will know and will be able to discuss critically the eukaryotic cell, intra- and inter-cellular relationships, tissue organization and the fundaments of embryo development.
Prerequisites
NO
Course unit content
The Histology Module, starting from basic notions about the cell and its components, intends to provide students with a general picture of the tissue organization of our organism. The epithelial, glandular, connective, nervous and muscular tissues will be described, observing their organization in the organs. Furthermore, attention will be paid to the basic processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis, fertilization and the first 4 weeks of embryonic development.
Full programme
Cells and extracellular matrix. The cell organelles and apparati: morphological and functional aspects. The cell cycle: mitosis and meiosis. Basic knowledge on staminal cells and differentiated cells. Cell populations.
Somatic cells: morphological and functional aspects of the differentiated cytotypes. Tissues. Germ cells: spermatogenesis and oogenesis. The control of gametogenesis. Fertilisation and morphogenetic events during the first 4 weeks of development. Extraembryonic membranes. Embryonic origin of organs.
Bibliography
Didactical material given by the teacher, including the slides of the course.
The main book adopted is:
D. Bani et al. ISTOLOGIA per le lauree triennali e magistrali - casa ed. Idelson-Gnocchi GG SORBONA
Teaching methods
Lectures will be held on-site in compliance with safety standards, provided that further instructions on the ongoing health emergency are not implemented. Supporting material will be available on the specific, student-reserved platform (Elly) and will include slide presentations, audio-video aids or video-recording of the lectures.
Before each new lesson, the teacher will first summarise then check whether the previous topics have been well understood through an interactive discussion with the students.
Assessment methods and criteria
Besides the short exams described above and performed throughout the course, there will be a final written exam during which the student will be asked questions on topics discussed during the course. The exam will assess the understanding of a specific topic, but also the capacity of the student to trace, using the appropriate language, those links necessary to the understanding of the biological phenomenon described.
Other information
